Josey's life is in shambles as she spends Christmas waiting by the tree with her young son and daughter, alone in their home. When her husband returns, things take a turn for the worse, leaving her bloody on the floor after he violently assaults her. Without hesitation, she packs up her belongings into her pickup truck, determined to leave with her children for good. They find refuge at her parents' house in northern Minnesota, but this situation proves only slightly better. Although she and the kids are away from danger, her father's disrespectful comments make it clear he holds her in contempt, questioning her fidelity. Meanwhile, her more nurturing mother, played by Frances McDormand, urges her to forgive her husband, disregarding the abuse she has suffered.
In need of work, Josey takes a temporary job washing hair at a local salon, where she reconnects with an old friend, Glory. Glory shares that there are high-paying positions available for women at the nearby iron mines. Despite knowing her father works there and would disapprove, Josey realizes she desperately needs the money — the mine job offers a salary six times her current pay. With little choice, she decides to apply.
Before she can start, however, Josey faces a humiliating pelvic exam to prove she’s not pregnant, demonstrating the company’s patronizing treatment of female employees. After applying, she and her children move in with Glory and her husband. Upon beginning work, Josey and the other women quickly discover the hostile environment awaiting them. Their supervisor openly expresses his disapproval of their presence, making it clear that he is only hiring them due to a Supreme Court mandate. Toxic behavior from their male counterparts escalates, gradually making their workplace unbearable; lewd messages and intimidation become the norm.
When Josey bravely confronts her supervisor about the unacceptable conditions, he dismisses her concerns, stating no one wants her there. Realizing the scarcity of decent jobs in the 1980s, she persists, finding that the income allows her to secure a home and provide for her children. Yet, her struggles continue as the company refuses to provide basic facilities for women, such as porta-johns, leading to more humiliation and harassment.
Determined to challenge the status quo, Josey requests a formal meeting with Mr. Pearson, the owner. He tries to push her to resign, accusing her of stirring conflict and undermining her performance. With unfounded rumors circulating, even her son begins to look down on her, parroting the community’s disdain. The situation deteriorates further when she is assaulted by Bobby Sharp, her former high school boyfriend turned shift leader. Frustrated and outraged, she decides to seek legal representation and file harassment charges against the company.
Initially, her lawyer expresses hesitance, fearful of the backlash and potential losses. However, during a town meeting where men unjustly vilify her, Josey finds unexpected support from her father, reaffirming her strength and determination. The court proceedings commence, revealing a grim reality where only she has the courage to speak up about the abuses.
Despite the hostility she faces in court, including brutal questions about her character, Josey's resolve grows stronger as she is supported by her co-workers. When her father's outrage boils over, it serves as a catalyst, prompting others to stand by her side in solidarity. Ultimately, with enough support, Josey and her lawyer fight back against the injustice she and her colleagues faced, making strides toward change. The courtroom transforms into a space of empowerment as both men and women rise together in support.
Months later, Josey is on the path to reclaiming her life. Her teenage son plays hockey with her attorney, while she contemplates teaching him to drive. Finally, it appears that joy and respect have found their way back into her life, as she takes charge of her future and begins to thrive once more.
